The 39-year-old said: "It will be nice to not have so much pressure on me this time, and it's also a chance for me to challenge myself and raise even more money for Macmillan who have been such a huge support to both my son Jack and I."

Chris and Jack Rose with Race For Your Life's Elmer called 'Edna' in memory of Angela Rose, who tragically died from cancer earlier this year. Picture: CHRIS ROSE

Angela was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2018 and it had always been her dream to run the London Marathon - but after falling ill and with her disease becoming progressively worse, her husband Chris decided to run it on her behalf.

She was hoping to be able to cheer her husband on but she sadly died during his training.

At the time, Chris said: "Angela was cheated of her dream in the most horrible way possible, but I know that by running the marathon and raising money I'm not only helping other people who are suffering like Angela, but I'm also granting her last wish."

Chris completed the 2019 London Marathon in just over 5 hours - and has now decided to mark his 40th birthday in February 2020 by running the 40th anniversary of the London Marathon in April, but this time he says it will be very different.

Chris and Angela Rose pictured with friends from Race For Your Life. Picture: CHRIS ROSE

He said: "I'd like another chance.

"Angela was going through treatment at the time so it was difficult to concentrate on any training as my mind was elsewhere."

Chris raised just under £8,000 after completing this year's London Marathon, but is aiming to increase this to a total of £10,000 by the end of his 2020 race.

He also wants to cut down on his time and "challenge himself".

Chris' shirt for the 2019 London Marathon. Picture: CHRIS ROSE

Chris, who is father to nine-year-old Jack, will be running in Angela's memory with her name on his shirt and raising money for her friends in the Ipswich Hospital oncology department where Angela worked.

He said: "Macmillan have been amazing - Jack has art therapy once a week, he's had counselling, and he's had support in his school.

"I'm so proud of how he is doing and how he's handled everything."

Chris has not yet decided whether he will take the wristband with Angela's ashes in, as he doesn't want to spoil the special experience the pair shared earlier this year.

Chris and Angela Rose pictured together. Picture: CHRIS ROSE

He explained: "Part of me thinks should I just do it for me? Or will I do it with her as well? She will always be with me and of course this is all in her memory.

"My first marathon was so special as it was all so fresh and I did it entirely for her. But I don't want to ruin that memory and try and replicate it, so I'm not sure what I will do."

Chris hopes to begin training properly by the end of the month - having completed a number of smaller runs and 10ks throughout the year, along with running Elmer's Big Parade in aid of St Elizabeth Hospice where Angela was cared for.